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Castaway in bohemian-inspired paradise: Festive celebration at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Dhawa Ihuru
The holiday season is just around the corner, and there is no better place to celebrate than at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru. As the year ends, the “twin islands” invite travellers globally for a series of enchanting festivities that will make their holidays truly memorable.
Embark on a memorable New Year’s Eve journey starting with a delectable dinner, followed by live music, and a thrilling countdown. This ‘Cast Away in Bohemian-Inspired Paradise’ theme allows guests to dress in their favourite attire, and just be comfortable with themselves.
As Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru ring in the New Year, a spectacular lineup of events awaits guests:
- Festive Tree Lighting: The celebration kicks off with a magical tree lighting ceremony on 22 December, setting the stage for a Bohemian-inspired year-end celebration. Guests can witness the twinkling lights and holiday spirit fill the air as we officially welcome the festive season.
- Kiddies O’clock: Special activities for the little ones are prepared, including Christmas Card Making and T-shirt Painting, ensuring they have as much fun as the adults throughout the festive season. On 23 December, they can participate in a magical Christmas Kids Party with Santa.
- Christmas Eve Sunset Cocktails and Christmas Eve Dinner: On 24 December, guests can enjoy a mesmerising sunset cocktail hour, serenaded by a delightful choir. Santa himself will make a special appearance, bearing gifts for all. Later in the evening, indulge in a sumptuous dinner with live entertainment to elevate the holiday spirit.
- Wellbeing Workshops: Guests can partake in a variety of wellbeing activities, including Sunset Yoga and Ocean Breath, Acupressure Workshop, Family Bonding Yoga, Year-end Gratitude Meditation, and New Year’s Resolution Yoga to rejuvenate the body, mind, and soul.
- Stay For Good: Engage in meaningful activities such as Christmas Coral Planting, Species Spotter, Marine Talk, and Corals’ Special Documentary to make a positive impact on this stunning destination.
- Culinary Experiences: For those looking to expand their culinary horizons, join the Japanese Whisky Class, Make Your Own Margarita, and Master the Art of Yakitori at Madi Hiyaa, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru’s newest architectural and gastronomic gem, an exceptional standalone overwater Yakitori Restaurant and Bar, featuring an incredible sea saltwater infinity pool, breathtaking sunset panoramas, caressed by the gentle sea breeze, and offering authentic Japanese cuisine with Maldivian twist. Madi Hiyaa is the best location for “lucky stingray spotting”, too.
- Beach Activities: Guests can engage in exciting beach activities, including a Football Match, Beach Tennis, and Beach Volleyball, as Guests vs Associates compete in the spirit of camaraderie.
- Watersports and Adventures: Thrill-seekers can indulge in a wide range of watersports, including Catamaran Sunrise, Sunset Cruise, Jet Ski, Parasailing and Big Game Fishing to satisfy their adventurous spirit.
- Maldivian Cultural Experience: Guests can immerse themselves in Maldivian culture and enjoy a Photoshoot in a traditional costume, capturing the essence of the Maldives in a memorable keepsake.
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru are dedicated to making the festive season truly magical. View the full Festive Brochure 2023 – 2024 and be inspired to join for a celebration filled with joy, adventure, wellbeing, and meaningful experiences.
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru is a luxury barefoot tropical paradise at the heart of North Male’ Atoll, 25-minute away from Velana International Airport via speedboat. With 48 pool villas dotting around the island, privacy and relaxation can easily be attained. Stay at least 3 nights and save up to 20% off the best available rate, which includes daily breakfast and dinner for two guests, plus one-time sunset cruise. Find out more via Stay More Pay Less | Banyan Tree.
Situated approximately two-minute away via speedboat from Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru lies Dhawa Ihuru, a distinct island retreat of its own with 45 villas, and dubbed as “one of the best house reefs” and “diver’s paradise” in the Maldives. Take advantage of 20% off the best available rate, while maximum 2 kids below 11 years old enjoy complimentary “stay and dine” with parents. Discover more via Sharing Time | Dhawa Ihuru.
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Six Senses Kanuhura participates in international COASTS Project on blue carbon ecosystems
Six Senses Kanuhura is participating in the COASTS Project, a global research initiative dedicated to understanding and strengthening coastal resilience through the study of blue carbon ecosystems. By supporting this international collaboration, the resort reinforces its ongoing commitment to marine conservation and sustainable stewardship of the fragile ecosystems that define the Maldives.
Funded under Horizon Europe 2023 by EUSPA Space, the COASTS Project is led by EOMAP, a Fugro company, and brings together a consortium of partners including Submaris and the Maldives Space Research Organisation (MSRO). The initiative focuses on the study of seagrass and mangrove ecosystems, exploring their interaction with coastal hazards and their capacity for carbon sequestration.

The project spans three key locations globally: the Baltic Sea in Germany, Chausey Island in France, and the Maldives. Within the Maldives, research is conducted across two sites in Noonu Atoll, and Six Senses Kanuhura in Lhaviyani Atoll.
At the resort, research activities take place across the reef flat and lagoon, encompassing seagrass mapping, ecological surveys, and sediment core sampling. These efforts aim to deepen scientific understanding of how seagrass meadows contribute to coastal protection, support marine biodiversity, and store carbon. Findings from the COASTS Project are expected to inform key stakeholders in developing evidence-based approaches to seagrass conservation and management.

“There is still a lot to be studied about seagrass ecosystems,” says Philipp Schubert, the Submaris team lead for COASTS. “Through the COASTS surveys in the Maldives, we aim provide crucial in situ data on seagrass health, extent, and functionality, helping to improve models and ultimately support sustainable management of these coastal habitats.”
In parallel with its involvement in the COASTS Project, the resort’s in-house marine biologist James Cordery and the sustainability team actively advocate for the protection of seagrass ecosystems in the Maldives. Recognised as vital habitats for marine life and important natural carbon sinks, seagrass meadows remain undervalued. Through guest engagement and educational initiatives, the team works to shift perceptions, fostering greater appreciation and advocacy for these critical habitats.

“At Six Senses Kanuhura, we believe that meaningful conservation begins with awareness and connection,” says Alicia Graham, General Manager. “Seagrass is a quiet yet powerful force beneath the surface, protecting our shores and nurturing marine life. Through our collaboration with the COASTS Project, we are proud to support research that not only advances science but also helps people see the beauty and value of these underwater meadows.”
Through this collaboration, Six Senses Kanuhura continues to champion a more thoughtful and science-driven relationship with the ocean, one that prioritises awareness, responsibility, and long-term care for the interconnected ecosystems surrounding the island.

Encompassing three private islands, Six Senses Kanuhura is known for being home to the finest beaches in the Maldives. The 85 spacious and elegant beachfront, family, and overwater pool villas enjoy a turquoise lagoon at their feet, which is home to resident turtles and marine life. Adventures abound in this paradise found, with food, fun, family moments, and new friends for moments of connection, and peaceful seclusion.
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ELE|NA at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI recognised at Global Spa Awards 2026
ELE|NA Elements of Nature at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI has been honoured with the title of Best Spa Resort Maldives at the Global Spa Awards by The Luxury Spa Edit 2026, recognising the resort’s exceptional commitment to luxury wellness and transformative spa experiences in the Maldives.
Widely regarded as one of the most authentic and respected recognitions in the global spa and wellness industry, the awards celebrate the world’s most outstanding spas, wellness retreats, clinics, and spa brands. Nominees are carefully curated by leading spa and wellness experts, with winners selected through a global public vote, making the recognition both credible and highly regarded.

Located in the serene island setting of the Maldives, ELE|NA Elements of Nature at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI offers a holistic approach to wellbeing through thoughtfully designed wellness journeys that integrate therapeutic traditions, modern wellness science, and immersive sensory experiences. Guided by the brand’s philosophy of Wellness Your Way™, each experience is tailored to the individual, allowing guests to embrace wellbeing in a way that feels intuitive, personal, and effortlessly luxurious.

The spa experience is further enriched by distinctive wellness spaces and programmes. Vihaara, the spa’s alchemy-inspired sustainable workshop and garden, is filled with nurturing plants and herbs, inviting guests to reconnect with nature through hands-on, sensorial rituals. A tranquil Zen Garden offers a meditative sanctuary for stillness and reflection, complemented by a dedicated meditation corner designed for mindful escape. Signature experiences such as OceanFlow Therapy, energy healing sessions, and a curated Visiting Practitioner Programme bring together global expertise and ancient wisdom, creating a dynamic and deeply personalised wellness journey. The spa’s tranquil overwater treatment rooms and personalised wellness programmes invite guests to reconnect with balance, relaxation, and vitality.

“At ELE|NA, wellness is deeply personal,” said Heidi Grimwood, Senior Vice President of ELE|NA. “Our Wellness Your Way™ philosophy is at the heart of everything we do, empowering each guest to define their own wellness journey. This recognition reflects the dedication and passion of our entire team at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, who create exceptional wellness experiences for every guest. We are honoured to receive this award and grateful for the trust and support of our guests and partners.”

The recognition further reinforces ELE|NA’s commitment to redefining luxury wellness experiences across its portfolio of spa destinations, championing a more personalised, intuitive approach to wellbeing through Wellness Your Way™.
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Reethi Faru Resort joins global Earth Hour campaign with conservation efforts
On Saturday, March 28th, Reethi Faru Resort joined millions worldwide in observing Earth Hour 2026, a global initiative encouraging individuals and communities to switch off their lights for one hour to raise awareness about environmental sustainability. This year marked the 20th anniversary of Earth Hour, themed “Create the Biggest Hour for Earth,” inspiring participants to dedicate time to meaningful environmental actions.
In a hands-on commitment to the planet, guests joined our team members in coral planting, actively contributing to the preservation and restoration of local reefs. This initiative reflects the resort’s ongoing dedication to marine conservation and sustainable hospitality practices.
In a powerful display of unity, participants came together to form the number 60 on the beach, symbolising the 60 minutes of Earth Hour. The visually striking formation served as both a memorable tribute and a compelling reminder of the resort’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Between 8:30 PM and 9:30 PM, the resort further demonstrated its sustainability ethos by dimming lights and turning off non-essential equipment, effectively reducing energy consumption while maintaining guest comfort and safety.
Following Earth Hour, guests enjoyed a relaxing movie night under the stars, complemented by a cozy bonfire, offering a memorable conclusion to the day’s activities.
For Reethi Faru, Earth Hour represents more than just switching off lights; it is an opportunity to engage the community in meaningful actions for the planet. The resort was delighted to see guests and team members participate enthusiastically, making this year’s celebration both impactful and memorable.
Reethi Faru Resort remains committed to environmental initiatives and looks forward to future milestones in marine conservation, sustainable practices, and community engagement.
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